A number of Wolverhampton’s councillors took up the offer of a NHS flu jab to help ensure they stay protected from flu this winter, and to reduce their chances of passing on flu to vulnerable members of their families and communities.
One in four people are at greater risk from flu, but vaccination rates are below the national average in Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull, and the colder weather typically brings with it increased attendances to NHS services for avoidable illnesses like winter viruses.
By improving uptake, communities can support each other by preventing the spread of flu and support local NHS services by reducing unnecessary pressure.
The vaccine helps protect against the virus, which can be a serious or even life-threatening illness. The NHS flu vaccination programme is evidence-based, with extensive scientific research showing vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and complications from flu.
Mr Ian Sharp, Medical Advisor at NHS Birmingham & Solihull and NHS Black Country ICBs said: “Councillors play an important role as trusted leaders in their communities, so it’s fantastic to see them taking up the offer of a flu vaccination and leading by example.
“Flu can have serious complications for those most vulnerable in our communities, and we know that our uptake isn’t as good as it needs to be to ensure we are protecting as many people as possible. By getting your free NHS flu vaccination, you are not only reducing the likelihood of getting the virus yourself, but limiting your chance of passing it on to those you may come into contact – grandparents, children, vulnerable work colleagues and those in local community.
“Year after year we see huge numbers of people with flu attending our services, putting significant pressure on our GP practices, hospitals and community services. Vaccination remains our best protection, and is supported by strong scientific evidence gathered over many years, so I would strongly encourage all of those eligible to do what our local councillors have done and get vaccinated.”
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Councillor for St Peter’s and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community at the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Flu can be much more serious than people sometimes think, particularly for older people and those with certain health conditions. If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccination, please take up the offer. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and the people you care about this winter.”
Tim Johnson, Chief Executive of the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Flu can disrupt our everyday lives, keeping us away from work, school and the things we want to be doing. If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccination, please make time to get yours. It’s quick and easy to do, and could help you avoid becoming seriously unwell this winter.”
Those eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine include:
- Those aged 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027)
- Those aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
- Those who are pregnant – flu vaccines can be given at any stage of pregnancy
- Those who live in a care home
- Main carers for an older or disabled person, or who receive a carer’s allowance
- Those who lived with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Those aged 16 or over and sleeping rough or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
- Children aged two and up.
To get a vaccine, eligible people can book a vaccination appointment online or via the NHS App, contact your GP surgery or visit a participating community pharmacy. Some people can also get vaccinated through their maternity service or care home, or through their employer if they’re a frontline health or social care worker.
School-aged children will also be invited to receive their vaccination via the school aged immunisations service.
A version of the vaccine which contains no pork products is also available on request.
Anyone who is not eligible for the free vaccine can get it for a small charge from participating pharmacies.
